1. Understanding the hidden world beneath our feet
Jim Robbins of The New York Times writes: "Soil, with all of its organic matter, is second to the oceans as the largest carbon repository on the planet … It contains nearly one-third of all living organisms." And yet we've only identified around 1 percent of them. To change that, scientists have embarked on what they are calling the Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative to evaluate the health of our soil life, pinpoint where it is endangered, and protect the worldwide food web. Read on.
2. Eating tree nuts can help prevent metabolic syndrome
Science Daily reports that eating tree nuts leads to modest decreases in blood fats and sugars, which can help reduce your risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other health problems associated with metabolic syndrome. Read on.
3. GMO labeling in Oregon: 3 reasons to vote 'Yes'
Backers of the ballot initiative in Oregon to require GMO food labeling have outlined three reasons why you should vote for the cause, stating first and foremost: “It’s not about politics. It’s about transparency.” Read on.
4. Insects make the perfect food … for cows?
An article in the journal Animal Feed Science and Technology suggests that replacing conventional crop-based feed with insect meal could revolutionize the livestock industry. It’s closer to the natural diet of poultry and some fish, and certain bug larvae contain natural antibiotics that could reduce harmful bacteria like E. coli and salmonella in meat. As a bonus, they can slash food waste by up to 75 percent. How? Read on.
5. Uncle Matt's Organic helps conventional Florida citrus growers go organic
As the largest and oldest organic citrus company in America, Uncle Matt’s Organic now “actively recruits conventional farmers, handles all the paperwork for them throughout the [organic] transition and certification process, creates a full farm plan and oversees every aspect of caretaking.” The result: consistent sales growth and positive changes in Florida agriculture. Read on.
Illustration: Katie Eberts
